Moves to overhaul Nigeria’s policing system are gathering momentum, as the National Assembly begins work on a decentralised model aimed at strengthening accountability and curbing misuse by the political class.
Leader of the Senate and Vice Chairman , Senate Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution, Opeyemi Bamidele, disclosed this in a statement issued on Sunday, as he highlighted ongoing efforts to improve Nigeria’s security architecture.
Bamidele explained that lawmakers are focused on creating a framework that brings policing closer to the people, while putting firm checks in place to prevent abuse of power.
He also pointed to growing collaboration between the National Assembly and President Bola Tinubu in tackling insecurity, noting that the current approach goes beyond conventional tactics to address deeper drivers of violence, including extremism and armed attacks.
According to him, the President has thrown his weight behind the idea of decentralised policing as part of broader efforts to better protect lives, property, and public infrastructure across the country.
At the heart of the proposal is the plan to shift some policing powers to states, a move Bamidele believes will improve response times and ensure security presence reaches even the most remote communities.
He stressed that the National Assembly is treating the proposal with urgency.
But beyond structure, he insists accountability will be key.
Bamidele says the framework being developed will include safeguards to prevent political interference, strengthen justice delivery, discourage impunity, and protect citizens’ fundamental rights.
He describes the effort as part of a shared vision between the executive and legislature to build a safer and more responsive security system, adding that the final model will reflect global best practices.
The conversation around state policing has gained traction in recent years, especially as Nigeria grapples with complex security challenges.
Many stakeholders argue that a decentralised system, tailored to Nigeria’s federal structure, could significantly improve protection at the grassroots.
The Nigeria Police has submitted a detailed 75-page proposal to Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, providing lawmakers with a foundation for legislative action.
Editor: Ebuwa Omo-Osagie
